Teaching Geography through an Animated Lens

ABSTRACT

Geography is a fun and exciting discipline involving the interrogation of place and space. Film is a powerful and meaningful tool, which also transmits perceptions of place and space. Therefore, this article builds a rationale for utilizing film in the teaching of geography, particularly animated film. Next, it discusses two classroom-tested methods for teaching geography with animated film: (1) film as a springboard and (2) film as an organizer. Each section contains a description of how geography teachers can utilize these methods plus two examples of relevant animated films. Furthermore, this article discusses common hurdles teachers may face when teaching with film in the classroom.

KEYWORDS:

• Geography
• film
• movies
• videos
• teaching
• social studies